The good professor, accompanied by assistants Luke and Emmy, returns in another absorbing adventure. Finding a girl from an ancient civilisation trapped alive in ice triggers a global race for the lost power of the mythical Azran culture, while plot threads laid throughout the Layton games are tied together.

Progression via the solving of hundreds of brain-teasing puzzles is a refined process by now, but no less captivating for the familiarity. New additions include a host of mini-games – all as challenging as the core experience – and the occasional adrenaline-fuelled action sequence that still demands mental acuity. Some puzzles are too well hidden though, leaving players tapping at their 3DS in frustration.

However, the delicate bande dessinée-inspired visuals remain hugely charming, the world and its inhabitants evoking Hergé and HG Wells to great effect. With solid voice acting and beautifully animated cut scenes, Azran Legacy is a fine cap to Layton's exploits.